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St. Paul, MN (KROC-AM News) - Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison this afternoon announced lawsuits were being filed against two Minnesota businesses that are among about 150 bars and restaurants that have pledged to open their doors in violation of the COVID pandemic restrictions ordered by Governor Tim Walz.

Ellison is seeking court orders requiring the Alibi Drinkery in Lakeville and Neighborhood on the Rum in Princeton to halt serving customers indoors to comply with the governor’s executive order. He is also seeking fines of up to $25,000 for each violation by the businesses.

“I know it’s tough out there for businesses and employees and help is already on the way — but what these establishments are doing is wrong. Not just wrong in breaking the law — wrong in exposing their loved ones, their customers, their employees, their communities, and potentially every Minnesotan to COVID-19. People will get sick, and some will die, because they’re breaking the law,” Attorney General Ellison said. “They’re also doing wrong by the vast majority of Minnesota businesses that are serving their communities by complying with the law. Those businesses deserve our thanks and our patronage, not unfair competition.”

Social media reports indicate the Lakeville bar was packed with customers this afternoon.

The Walz administration earlier announced he was taking steps to impose 60-day suspensions for liquor licenses issued to the businesses. Officials say that will require an administrative hearing before the suspensions can take effect.

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